Texas House Bill HB78

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the creation of a mental health treatment for incarceration diversion pilot program.

Impact

If implemented, HB 78 would allow significant changes to practices within the local criminal justice system. By focusing on mental health treatment rather than incarceration, Fort Bend County can potentially decrease jail populations and allocate resources to a more rehabilitative approach. Additionally, the bill requires the coordinative involvement of multiple county entities, such as local law enforcement and mental health courts, ensuring a broad-based community response to mental health issues. The anticipated effect is the creation of a sustainable model that can be evaluated and possibly expanded statewide if successful.

Summary

House Bill 78 proposes the establishment of a mental health treatment pilot program in Fort Bend County aimed at diverting individuals with mental illness from incarceration. The bill emphasizes collaboration between the Texas Health and Human Services Commission and the local Commissioners Court to develop a criminal justice mental health service model that focuses on reducing recidivism rates and minimizing arrests among such individuals. The initiative is structured to provide comprehensive mental health services, including access to integrated health, mental health, and rehabilitation services, which are crucial for effective post-incarceration support.

Contention

There may be concerns surrounding the program's funding and effectiveness. The bill stipulates that local funding should complement state appropriations without reducing existing mental health services. This aspect of the legislation aims to safeguard funding for local mental health authorities while simultaneously introducing innovative programs. However, critics might argue about the long-term sustainability given the requirement for ongoing local financial contributions, alongside expectations for measurable outcomes within a limited timeframe. The success of the pilot program hinges not only on financial aspects but also on the will of various partners to collaboratively address and adapt to the mental health needs of the community.